Greetings brothers and sisters, currently, I am out in the middle of the high desert of New Mexico at the Benedictine Monastery of Christ in the Desert starting my retreat. You are in my prayers. Before I left, I had some conversations with our staff about the safety of our parking lots, mainly the beautiful oak tree branches that are starting to hang low and the massive after school pick-up of students from the elementary now that school is back in session.

Greetings brothers and sisters, at this time of the year, everyone seems to be squeezing in their last moments of summer vacation before the start of the academic year. As we get ready for the new school year, there is also my installation Mass that will take place next Saturday, August 24th at the 5pm Mass. I’m looking forward to this as it will mark the official beginning of my ministry here at Most Holy Trinity (even though I’ve been here about a month and a half already). In restaurant language, that was the “soft-opening” and next Saturday will be the “grand-opening.”

Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ, Hopefully you've had some time to ponder a bit more about a spirit of communion. I think one of the most beautiful signs of communion is found in strong and lasting marriages. This past weekend, I was able to bless a couple who had been married for 50 years and was still filled with love and joy. It's a real tragedy that this is no longer the norm but rather it is the exception. I would argue that we not only have a shortage of holy vocations to the priesthood, but holy vocation to marriages seem rare nowadays.

Greetings Brothers and Sisters in Christ, what a blessed week it’s been! This past weekend, there was both the Women’s ACTS retreat going on as well as the Archdiocesan Youth Conference (AYC) too! Both were filled with the Holy Spirit. Needless to say, I think I used up a whole tank of gas between Dickenson (where the Women’s ACTS retreat was), Downtown Houston and Most Holy Trinity.

Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ, I have to say that it's been quite a whirlwind since I've arrived at Most Holy Trinity. I've learned thousands of names... for about 30 seconds, and which I find myself having to relearn them again soon after. I've unpacked all of my stuff at the rectory and in my office. But still not quite completely settled in yet. I've met with many people so far, one on one, and been able to share a meal with a few. At the end of the day, being a priest is an adventure filled with excitement and joy.